Former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Biography, The people’s President and Missile man of India
Introduction
Missile man of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam full name Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was not just a scientist or a president; he was a symbol of hope, simplicity, and innovation. Known as the “Missile Man of India”, he inspired millions of Indians with his journey from a small town in Tamil Nadu to the highest constitutional post in the country. His legacy continues to live on in the minds of students, scientists, and leaders around the world.
Early Life and Background
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, a town in Tamil Nadu known for its temples. He came from a Tamil Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, worked as a boat owner, and his mother, Ashiamma, took care of the home. Although not financially strong, the family was spiritually rich and deeply grounded in values.
From a young age, Abdul Kalam showed a strong interest in learning new things. He sold newspapers to support his family while continuing his studies. Abdul Kalam was dedicated and disciplined from a young age. He finished his school in Rameswaram, then studied physics at St. Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli. Later, he went on to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).
Table of Contents
Scientific Contributions
After graduation, Kalam joined the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). At ISRO, he played a pivotal role in developing India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in 1980.
He then became the face of India’s missile development, leading projects such as:
- Agni – an intermediate-range ballistic missile
- Prithvi – a short-range surface-to-surface missile
His work in missile development earned him the title “Missile Man of India”. Under the leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India conducted the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established the country’s nuclear strength on the world map.
Presidency and Public Life
In 2002, Dr. Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India, becoming the first scientist and bachelor to occupy Rashtrapati Bhavan. His presidency broke several norms; he was accessible to students, active on email and social media, and known for his plain living and high thinking.
During his tenure from 2002 to 2007, he emphasized national development through technology and education. Dr Kalam also inspired a generation through his books and lectures.
Author and Motivator
Apart from being a scientist and president, Kalam was a prolific author. His books continue to motivate students, teachers, and professionals alike. Some of his most well-known works include:
- Wings of Fire – his autobiography
- Ignited Minds – encouraging youth to dream and act
- India 2020 – outlining a vision to make India a developed nation
His speeches and writings revolved around innovation, patriotism, science, and national progress. He often said, “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”
Top Motivational Quotes by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
“Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”
“If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”
“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”
Death and Legacy
On July 27, 2015, Dr. Kalam collapsed while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong and passed away from a cardiac arrest. He died as he lived—working to educate and inspire young minds.
The government declared a 7-day state mourning in his honor. His funeral in Rameswaram was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Dr. Kalam led a humble life. He never owned property, had minimal personal belongings, and gave away most of his earnings to charity. His net worth was not measured in money but in the millions of hearts he touched.
Awards and Honors
Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam received numerous awards for his contribution to science and society, including:
- Padma Bhushan (1981)
- Padma Vibhushan (1990)
- Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian honor
Conclusion
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam remains one of India’s most loved and respected figures. His life story teaches us that poverty is never a barrier to success, and knowledge combined with humility can change the world.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam once said, “Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.” His words and works continue to shape India’s future.